If this is an emergency, perform rescue efforts and call emergency services (911).

Choking is a major safety concern for young children, especially those under four years old. Their airways are smaller, and because their chewing and swallowing skills are still developing, certain foods and small objects can easily block their breathing.

On top of that, young children tend to explore the world by putting things in their mouths, which increases the risk of choking. Luckily, by understanding common hazards and knowing how to respond in emergencies, you can reduce these risks significantly.

Choking Hazards Children

Common Choking Hazards and How to Prevent Them

Many choking incidents happen during mealtimes. Raw vegetables like carrots and celery should be served in small, manageable pieces or cooked until soft.

Foods that pose a choking risk include:

  • Whole grapes, hot dogs, and large chunks of meat or cheese
  • Nuts, seeds, popcorn, and hard candy
  • Peanut butter (especially in thick spoonfuls)
  • Raw vegetables like carrots and celery

To prevent accidents, supervise your child during meals and make sure they sit down while eating. Cut food into small, manageable pieces: quarter grapes, slice hot dogs lengthwise and then into smaller pieces, and cook vegetables or shred raw veggies. Encourage slow eating and remind your child to chew thoroughly.

Non-food choking hazards are equally important to watch out for. Non-food items that can cause choking include:

  • Small toys or toy parts
  • Coins, buttons, and batteries
  • Balloons and marbles

When it comes to toys, always choose options that are appropriate for your child’s age and check your home regularly for small objects or toy parts that could cause choking.

What to Do If Your Child Starts Choking

Despite all precautions, accidents can happen. Being familiar with the signs of choking and knowing how to respond can save your child’s life.

If your child is coughing forcefully, it means they are trying to clear their airway themselves. Encourage them to keep coughing.

However, if they cannot breathe, cry, or make any noise, you need to act quickly:

  1. For infants under one year old:
    • Place the baby face down on your forearm, supporting their head.
    • Give five firm back blows between the shoulder blades.
    • Turn them over and give five chest thrusts.
  2. For children over one year old:
    • Perform the Heimlich maneuver: Stand behind them, place a fist above their belly button, and give quick, upward abdominal thrusts.

If these efforts don’t dislodge the object, call 911 immediately and continue rescue techniques until help arrives.

Staying Calm in Emergencies

Choking incidents can be terrifying, but being prepared and staying calm can make a big difference in an emergency. Learning infant and child CPR and first aid can be lifesaving. Many community centers and healthcare providers offer training in these essential skills.

By staying vigilant with toys and other choking hazards, practicing safe eating habits, and knowing how to respond in an emergency, you can keep your child safe and prepared for the unexpected.

This article is meant for informational purposes only. If you have questions or would like further information, make an appointment with your primary care provider. If this is an emergency, call 911.

This blog post was first published on WFMCHealth.org.